Research Methods and Ethnography

What this unit covers

This unit sits in the Foundations of Anthropology strand of Anthropology. It is mostly mind maps, backed by quizzes, flashcard decks and a couple of notes. Together they follow how anthropologists collect, record and question their evidence.

Fieldwork and ethnographic techniques

Start with the maps on fieldwork. FIELD METHODS lists direct observation, conversations, the interview schedule, the genealogical method, well-informed informants and life histories. It also covers emic and etic research strategies and problem oriented research. Requirements and Characteristics of the Fieldwork explains fieldwork as research based on direct personal observation. Several maps on cultural research in social anthropology and on ethnographic techniques cover similar ground, so pick the one whose layout suits you.

Writing, theory and ethics

The Geertz map defines ethnography as the study and systematic recording of human cultures. Geertz 1973 Part 2 looks at field notes and the translation of experience into text. Visual and Textual Reflexivity asks how researchers reflect on their own part in the work. ETHICS AND SOCIAL RESEARCH PART 2 takes up Howard Becker's question of whose side we are on. Thick descrption is also here, spelling as listed.

Data and numbers

The Research methods map explains types of data: nominal, ordinal and interval/ratio. A quiz on inferential statistics sits alongside it for anyone who needs the quantitative side.

A sensible order

1. Read Geertz to fix what ethnography is.
2. Work through FIELD METHODS and the fieldwork maps.
3. Move to the writing and ethics maps.
4. Take a quiz such as Anthropolgy module 2 to see what stuck.
5. Go back to the maps for the gaps, then turn them into flashcards.

Quizzes show what you can recall, and maps show how ideas connect, so use them in turns. Open a map now, then try a quiz when you feel ready.